Information for the public
Nivolumab with platinum-based and fluoropyrimidine-based chemotherapy is available on the NHS. It is a possible treatment for oesophageal squamous cell cancer in adults if:
- they have not had treatment before
- their cancer cannot be removed surgically (unresectable)
- their cancer is advanced, recurrent or has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic)
- their tumour cells express a protein called PD-L1 at a level of 1% or more
- pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy is not suitable.
If you are not eligible for nivolumab with fluoropyrimidine-based and platinum-based chemotherapy but are already having it, you should be able to continue until you and your doctor decide when best to stop.
Is this treatment right for me?
Your healthcare professionals should give you clear information, talk with you about your options and listen carefully to your views and concerns. Your family can be involved too, if you wish. Read more about making decisions about your care.
Questions to think about
- How well does it work compared with other treatments?
- What are the risks or side effects? How likely are they?
- How will the treatment affect my day-to-day life?
- What happens if the treatment does not work?
- What happens if I do not want to have treatment? Are there other treatments available?
Information and support
The NHS website may be a good place to find out more.
These organisations can give you advice and support:
- Guts UK, 0207 486 0341
- Cancer Research UK, 0808 800 4040
- Macmillan Cancer Support, 0808 808 0000
You can also get support from your local Healthwatch.
NICE is not responsible for the quality or accuracy of any information or advice provided by these organisations.
ISBN: 978-1-4731-5000-3
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